Former Finn Harps manager Ollie Horgan dies aged 57
James Cox
Galway United assistant manager and former Finn Harps manager Ollie Horgan has died at the age of 57.
Horgan was a popular figure in the League of Ireland since 2013, best known for his nine-year tenure at Finn Harps.
Under Horgan, Harps were twice promoted to the League of Ireland Premier Division.
He joined Galway United in 2022, but stepped down earlier this month for health reasons.
Tributes have poured in for Horgan, including one from President Michael D Higgins, who is a Galway United fan.
In a statement, Galway United said: "It is with immense sadness that Galway United share the news of the passing of Ollie Horgan.
"A legend of the game across Ireland, Ollie joined the Galway United family ahead of the 2023 season and has been instrumental in the club's success ever since.
"On behalf of everyone at Galway United, we would like to offer our deepest condolences to Anita, Ollie’s loving wife, his children Emma, Anthony, Brendan, Conor, David, his sister Mary, his brother Gerard and his extended family and friends. Ollie was predeceased by his mother Bernie, father Joe and brother Martin."
In a statement, Finn Harps said Horgan was a "a man of great integrity and resolve".
"Everyone associated with Finn Harps is deeply saddened by the passing of former manager Ollie Horgan.
"Ollie arrived at Finn Park in 2013 and over the course of nearly a decade left an indelible mark on the club's history. During his tenure he guided Harps to an FAI Cup semi-final, two promotions and secured the club’s best league finish in twenty years in 2020.
"His relentless determination, work ethic and passion saw the club defy the odds to compete in the Premier Division in six of Ollie’s nine years at the helm, resulting in many magic nights at Finn Park and across the country.
"A man of great integrity and resolve, Ollie’s contribution to Finn Harps and Irish football will never be forgotten.
"The thoughts of everyone at Finn Harps FC are with Ollie’s family and friends at this very difficult time.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."